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Haugen T, Halvorsen JØ, Friborg O, Mork PJ, Mikkelsen G, Schei B, Hagemann C. Early Intervention after Rape to prevent post-traumatic stress symptoms (the EIR-study): an internal pilot study of a randomized controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:118. [PMID: 39223617 PMCID: PMC11367763 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-024-01541-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rape is one of the trauma incidents with the highest risk of subsequent post-traumatic stress disorder. Early interventions, such as prolonged exposure therapy (PE), have shown promise in preventing PTSD following a sexual assault. The primary objective of this internal pilot trial was to examine the feasibility of the EIR study protocol, which used modified prolonged exposure therapy (mPE) as a preventive intervention after rape. METHODS This parallel two-arm clinical pilot study involved three sexual assault centers (SACs) in Trondheim, Oslo, and Vestfold, with data collected between June 2022 and March 2023. Women seeking assistance at one of these three SACs within 72 h after rape or attempted rape received acute medical treatment and forensic examinations. Women who wanted further psychosocial treatment were, if eligible and consenting, recruited to complete baseline assessments and a clinical interview before being randomized to one of two study arms. The intervention group prescribed up to five sessions of modified PE (mPE) in addition to treatment as usual (TAU), starting within the first 14 days after the rape incident, followed by weekly sessions. The other group received TAU. The present pilot evaluation is based on 22 participants, i.e., nine mPE + TAU and 13 TAU alone. Primary outcomes were predefined progression criteria regarding recruitment, retention, intervention implementation, a harm reporting system, and applying biological measurements and actigraphy. RESULTS During the 6-month recruitment period, 235 women visited the three SACs. After eligibility screening and consent, 22 (9.4%) women were randomized. Three months later, 14 (63.6%) participants completed the final assessments. Intervention implementation was successful using trained SAC personnel to deliver mPE. The harm reporting system was used according to the study's plan, and adverse and serious adverse events were detected during the trial. The biological measurements and actigraphy had substantial missing data but were still considered usable for statistical analyses. CONCLUSION It may be feasible to conduct a full-scale RCT of early intervention after rape by comparing mPE + TAU to TAU alone. Minor design refinements were made to the protocol to enhance the main study outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05489133. Registered on 15 July 2022, retrospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Haugen
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.
- Department of Mental Healthcare, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Joar Øveraas Halvorsen
- Department of Mental Healthcare, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Oddgeir Friborg
- Department of Psychology, The Arctic University of Norway (UiT), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Paul Jarle Mork
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Gustav Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Berit Schei
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Cecilie Hagemann
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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Corley A, Marsh N, Keogh S. Methodological progress note: Pilot randomized controlled trials. J Hosp Med 2024; 19:821-826. [PMID: 38655805 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.13376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Corley
- School of Nursing and Midwifery & Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Nursing and Midwifery Research Centre, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole Marsh
- School of Nursing and Midwifery & Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Nursing and Midwifery Research Centre, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Nursing and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Samantha Keogh
- School of Nursing and Midwifery & Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Nursing and Midwifery Research Centre, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Nursing and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Marcucci M, Ofori S. Perioperative randomised controlled trials: to pilot or not to pilot? Br J Anaesth 2024:S0007-0912(24)00457-4. [PMID: 39209698 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2024.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The science of pilot trials is evolving, and understanding of their role in medical research is increasing. Perioperative randomised controlled trials often test interventions that are inherently multidisciplinary and complex; therefore, there might be compelling reasons to conduct pilot studies to assess feasibility and inform trial design. As pilot studies themselves require resources, investigators should not squander this opportunity; they should design them so that they properly address the sources of uncertainty regarding the success of the definitive trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Marcucci
- Clinical Epidemiology and Research Centre, Humanitas University & IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
| | - Sandra Ofori
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Woods CE, Lukersmith S, Salvador-Carulla L. Mapping review of 'proof-of-concept' in mental health implementation research using the TRL framework: a need for a better focus and conceptual clarification. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080078. [PMID: 39179274 PMCID: PMC11344517 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proof-of-concept (PoC) development is a key step in implementation sciences. However, there is a dearth of studies in this area and the use of this term in health and social sciences is ambiguous. OBJECTIVE The objective was to remove the ambiguity surrounding the PoC and pilot study stage in the research development process using a standard system to rate the development of projects and applications provided by the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) framework. DESIGN Mapping review and critical analysis using TRL as the standard measure. SEARCH STRATEGY AND CHARTING METHOD PubMed and PsycInfo databases were searched for papers that reported PoC studies of mental health interventions up to August 2023. Data were extracted, described and tabulated. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Included were PoC studies in mental health implementation research. Exclusion criteria were research relating to biomedical (drugs) development, neurocognitive tools, neuropsychology, medical devices, literature reviews or discussion papers or that did not include the term 'proof-of-concept' in the title, abstract or text. RESULTS From the 83 citations generated from the database search, 22 studies were included in this mapping review. Based on the study title, abstract and text, studies were categorised by research development stage according to the TRL framework. This review showed 95% of the studies used PoC incorrectly to describe the development stage of their research but which were not at this specific level of project development. CONCLUSIONS The TRL was a useful reference framework to improve terminological clarity around the term 'proof-of-concept' in implementation research. To extend the use of TRL in implementation sciences, this framework has now been adapted and validated to a health and social science-related research context accompanied by a health-related glossary of research process terms and definitions to promote a common vocabulary and shared understanding in implementation sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy E Woods
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra Faculty of Health, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Sue Lukersmith
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra Faculty of Health, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Luis Salvador-Carulla
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra Faculty of Health, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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Talbot R, Higham R, Croft J, Ainsworth G, Brown S, Kelly R, Stocken D, Thomson S, Rousseau N. Rapid qualitative analysis of recruitment obstacles in the FORVAD (Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy surgery versus Anterior Cervical Discectomy surgery in the treatment of cervical brachialgia) randomised, controlled trial. Trials 2024; 25:546. [PMID: 39152476 PMCID: PMC11330054 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08391-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of surgical trials is increasing but such trials can be complex to deliver and pose specific challenges. A multi-centre, Phase III, RCT comparing Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy versus Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion in the Treatment of Cervical Brachialgia (FORVAD Trial) was unable to recruit to target. A rapid qualitative study was conducted during trial closedown to understand the experiences of healthcare professionals who participated in the FORVAD Trial, with the aim of informing future research in this area. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 healthcare professionals who had participated in the FORVAD Trial. Interviews explored participants' experiences of the FORVAD trial. A rapid qualitative analysis was conducted, informed by Normalisation Process Theory. RESULTS Four main themes were generated in the data analysis: (1) individual vs. community equipoise; (2) trial set-up and delivery; (3) identifying and approaching patients; and (4) timing of randomisation. The objectives of the FORVAD trial made sense to participants and they supported the idea that there was clinical or collective equipoise regarding the two FORVAD interventions; however, many surgeons had treatment preferences and lacked individual equipoise. The site which had most recruitment success had adopted a more structured process for identification and recruitment of patients, whereas other sites that adopted more "ad hoc" screening strategies struggled to identify patients. Randomisation on the day of surgery caused both medico-legal and practical concerns at some sites. CONCLUSIONS Organisation and implementation of a surgical trial in neurosurgery is complex and presents many challenges. Sites often reported low recruitment and discussed the logistical issues of conducting a complex surgical RCT. Future trials in neurosurgery may need to offer more flexibility and time during set-up to maximise opportunities for larger recruitment numbers. Rapid qualitative analysis informed by Normalisation Process Theory was able to quickly identify key issues with trial implementation so rapid qualitative analysis may be a useful approach for teams conducting qualitative research in trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN, ISRCTN reference: 10,133,661. Registered 23rd November 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Talbot
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Ruchi Higham
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Julie Croft
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Gemma Ainsworth
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Sarah Brown
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Rachel Kelly
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Deborah Stocken
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Simon Thomson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Nikki Rousseau
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
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Dalal N, Catalli L, Miller SA, Madan S, Tan R, Agudelo E, Brandman D. BRIDGE to liver health: implementation of a group telehealth psychoeducational program through shared medical appointments for MASLD management. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1546. [PMID: 38849779 PMCID: PMC11161992 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18865-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents a significantly costly and increasingly prevalent disease, with treatment focused on lifestyle intervention. Integrating education and behavioral health into clinical care offers opportunities to engage and empower patients to prevent progression of liver disease. We describe the design and implementation of Behavioral Resources and Intervention through Digital Group Education (BRIDGE), a 6-session group telehealth program led by advanced practice providers (APPs) in 90-min shared medical appointments (SMAs) with small groups of MASLD patients in an academic outpatient hepatology clinic. The program contains multi-component group interventions, with didactic education and behavioral coaching, while leveraging peer-based learning and support. METHODS A mixed-methods exploratory pilot study was conducted. Feasibility and acceptability of the clinical intervention were assessed by tracking recruitment, attendance, and retention of BRIDGE participants, patient interviews, and debriefing of clinician and staff views of the clinical program. Implementation metrics included program development time, workflow and scheduling logistics, and billing compliance for sustainability. Finally, patient parameters including changes in liver enzymes, FIB-4, weight, and BMI from pre- to post-BRIDGE were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS We included 57 participants (median age 57, interquartile range (IQR) 50 - 65 years), 38 (67%) female, 38 (67%) white, and 40% had public insurance. Thirty-three (58%) participants completed all six sessions, while 43 (75%) attended at least five sessions. Patients who completed all sessions were older (median age 61 vs 53.5; p = 0.01). Gender, race/ethnicity, and insurance type were not significantly associated with missed sessions, and patients had similar rates of completion regardless of weight, BMI, or stage of liver disease. Barriers to completion included personal illness, family reasons, work commitments, or insurance issues. Prior to BRIDGE, median BMI was 31.9 (SD 29 - 36), with a median weight loss of 2 pounds (IQR -2 - 6) after BRIDGE. CONCLUSION The BRIDGE telehealth SMA program was feasible, well-attended, and positively reviewed. This pilot study informs future iterations of program development and evaluation of outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Dalal
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lisa Catalli
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sara A Miller
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Simone Madan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Behavioral Medicine Unit, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Riley Tan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eliana Agudelo
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Danielle Brandman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine, 1305 York Ave, Y414, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
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Dinh M, Lin CC, Whitfield C, Farhan Z, Meurer WJ, Bailey S, Skolarus LE. Exploring the Acceptability and Feasibility of Remote Blood Pressure Measurements and Cognition Assessments Among Participants Recruited From a Safety-Net Emergency Department (Reach Out Cognition): Nonrandomized Mobile Health Trial. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e54010. [PMID: 38805251 PMCID: PMC11167316 DOI: 10.2196/54010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular risk factor disproportionately affecting Black Americans, who also experience a higher incidence of Alzheimer disease and Alzheimer disease-related dementias. Monitoring blood pressure (BP) and cognition may be important strategies in reducing these disparities. OBJECTIVE The objective of the Reach Out Cognition study was to explore the feasibility and acceptability of remote cognitive and BP assessments in a predominantly Black, low-income population. METHODS Reach Out was a randomized, controlled, mobile health-based clinical trial to reduce BP among patients with hypertension at an emergency department in a safety-net hospital (ie, a US hospital in which 25% of the patients are Medicaid recipients). Upon conclusion of Reach Out, participants were given the option of continuing into an extension phase, Reach Out Cognition, that included Bluetooth-enabled BP monitoring and digital cognitive assessments for 6 months. Digital cognitive assessments were text message-linked online surveys of the Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam and Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders scale. BP assessments were measured with Bluetooth-enabled BP cuffs paired with an app and the data were manually sent to the research team. Outcomes were feasibility (ie, enrollment and 3- and 6-month completion of digital cognitive and BP assessments) and acceptability of assessments using a 4-item validated survey, ranging from 1 (not acceptable) to 5 (completely acceptable). RESULTS Of the 211 Reach Out participants, 107 (50.7%) consented and 71 (33.6%) completed enrollment in Reach Out Cognition. Participants had a mean age of 49.9 years; 70.4% were female and 57.8% identified as Black. Among the 71 participants, 51 (72%) completed cognitive assessments at 3 months and 34 (48%) completed these assessments at 6 months. BP assessments were completed by 37 (52%) and 20 (28%) of the 71 participants at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Participants were neutral on the acceptability of the digital cognitive assessments (mean 3.7) and Bluetooth self-measured BP (SMBP) monitoring (mean 3.9). Participants noted challenges syncing the BP cuff to the app, internet connection, and transmitting the data to the research team. CONCLUSIONS Enrollment and assessment completion were low, while acceptability was moderate. Technological advances will eliminate some of the Bluetooth SMBP barriers and offer new strategies for cognitive assessments. Subsequent studies could benefit from offering more comprehensive support to overcome Bluetooth-related hurdles, such as personalized training materials, video conferencing, or in-person research team support. Alternatively, strategies that do not require pairing with an app and passive transmission of data could be considered. Overall, further research is warranted to optimize participant engagement and overcome technological challenges. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03422718; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03422718.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie Dinh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Chun Chieh Lin
- Division of Health Services Research, Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Candace Whitfield
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Zahera Farhan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - William J Meurer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Sarah Bailey
- Bridges into the Future, Flint, MI, United States
| | - Lesli E Skolarus
- Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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Sahye-Pudaruth S, Ma DWL, Prashad M, Haines J. Early life involvement in food skills is associated with children's cooking skills: a longitudinal analysis. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024; 49:718-722. [PMID: 38224581 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Engaging young children in food skills such as food planning and preparation early in life may be an important predictor of later child cooking skills. The aim of this study was to examine whether early life involvement in food skills (mean age at baseline = 3.6 years) is prospectively associated with cooking skills among a sample of 60 children (mean age at follow-up = 10.0 years; 83% White) from the Guelph Family Health Study, an ongoing cohort study examining the effect of a home-based obesity prevention intervention. Early life involvement in food skills, i.e., child involvement in grocery shopping and meal preparation, was reported by parents at baseline. Children self-reported their cooking skills at follow-up. After adjusting for child age, child sex, parent age, household income, and intervention status, early life involvement in food skills was significantly associated with later child cooking skills (β = 0.24, 95% CI (0.02-0.45), p = 0.03). Future studies with larger and more socioeconomically, geographically, and racially diverse samples are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Sahye-Pudaruth
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - David W L Ma
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Prashad
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Jess Haines
- Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Krommes K, Thorborg K, Clausen MB, Rathleff MS, Olesen JL, Kallemose T, Hölmich P. Self-management including exercise, education and activity modification compared to usual care for adolescents with Osgood-Schlatter (the SOGOOD trial): protocol of a randomized controlled superiority trial. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:89. [PMID: 38643184 PMCID: PMC11032598 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00870-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osgood-Schlatter is the most frequent growth-related injury affecting about 10% of physically active adolescents. It can cause long-term pain and limitations in sports and physical activity, with potential sequela well into adulthood. The management of Osgood-Schlatter is very heterogeneous. Recent systematic reviews have found low level evidence for surgical intervention and injection therapies, and an absence of studies on conservative management. Recently, a novel self-management approach with exercise, education, and activity modification, demonstrated favorable outcomes for adolescents with patellofemoral pain and Osgood-Schlatter in prospective cohort studies. AIM The aim of this trial is to assess the effectiveness of the novel self-management approach compared to usual care in improving self-reported knee-related function in sport (measured using the KOOS-child 'Sport/play' subscale) after a 5-month period. METHODS This trial is a pragmatic, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial with a two-group parallel arm design, including participants aged 10-16 years diagnosed with Osgood-Schlatter. Participants will receive 3 months of treatment, consisting of either usual care or the self-management approach including exercise, education, and activity modification, followed by 2 months of self-management. Primary endpoint is the KOOS-child 'Sport/play' score at 5 months. This protocol details the planned methods and procedures. DISCUSSION The novel approach has already shown promise in previous cohort studies. This trial will potentially provide much-needed level 1 evidence for the effectiveness of the self-management approach, representing a crucial step towards addressing the long-term pain and limitations associated with Osgood-Schlatter. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05174182. Prospectively registered December 30th 2021. Date of first recruitment: January 3rd 2022. Target sample size: 130 participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Krommes
- Sports Orthopedic Research Center - Copenhagen (SORC-C), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Amager-Hvidovre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Kettegaard Allé 30, Hvidovre, DK-2650, Denmark.
| | - Kristian Thorborg
- Sports Orthopedic Research Center - Copenhagen (SORC-C), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Amager-Hvidovre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Kettegaard Allé 30, Hvidovre, DK-2650, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Bek Clausen
- Department of Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychomotor Therapy, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Sigurdsgade 26, DK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Michael Skovdal Rathleff
- Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg. Fyrkildevej 7, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Selma Lagerløfs Vej 249, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jens Lykkegaard Olesen
- Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Aalborg. Fyrkildevej 7, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Thomas Kallemose
- Department of Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychomotor Therapy, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Sigurdsgade 26, DK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, Amager-Hvidovre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Kettegaard Alle 30, Hvidovre, DK-2610, Danmark
| | - Per Hölmich
- Sports Orthopedic Research Center - Copenhagen (SORC-C), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Amager-Hvidovre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Kettegaard Allé 30, Hvidovre, DK-2650, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
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Pfledderer CD, von Klinggraeff L, Burkart S, da Silva Bandeira A, Lubans DR, Jago R, Okely AD, van Sluijs EMF, Ioannidis JPA, Thrasher JF, Li X, Beets MW. Consolidated guidance for behavioral intervention pilot and feasibility studies. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:57. [PMID: 38582840 PMCID: PMC10998328 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-024-01485-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the behavioral sciences, conducting pilot and/or feasibility studies (PFS) is a key step that provides essential information used to inform the design, conduct, and implementation of a larger-scale trial. There are more than 160 published guidelines, reporting checklists, frameworks, and recommendations related to PFS. All of these publications offer some form of guidance on PFS, but many focus on one or a few topics. This makes it difficult for researchers wanting to gain a broader understanding of all the relevant and important aspects of PFS and requires them to seek out multiple sources of information, which increases the risk of missing key considerations to incorporate into their PFS. The purpose of this study was to develop a consolidated set of considerations for the design, conduct, implementation, and reporting of PFS for interventions conducted in the behavioral sciences. METHODS To develop this consolidation, we undertook a review of the published guidance on PFS in combination with expert consensus (via a Delphi study) from the authors who wrote such guidance to inform the identified considerations. A total of 161 PFS-related guidelines, checklists, frameworks, and recommendations were identified via a review of recently published behavioral intervention PFS and backward/forward citation tracking of a well-known PFS literature (e.g., CONSORT Ext. for PFS). Authors of all 161 PFS publications were invited to complete a three-round Delphi survey, which was used to guide the creation of a consolidated list of considerations to guide the design, conduct, and reporting of PFS conducted by researchers in the behavioral sciences. RESULTS A total of 496 authors were invited to take part in the three-round Delphi survey (round 1, N = 46; round 2, N = 24; round 3, N = 22). A set of twenty considerations, broadly categorized into six themes (intervention design, study design, conduct of trial, implementation of intervention, statistical analysis, and reporting) were generated from a review of the 161 PFS-related publications as well as a synthesis of feedback from the three-round Delphi process. These 20 considerations are presented alongside a supporting narrative for each consideration as well as a crosswalk of all 161 publications aligned with each consideration for further reading. CONCLUSION We leveraged expert opinion from researchers who have published PFS-related guidelines, checklists, frameworks, and recommendations on a wide range of topics and distilled this knowledge into a valuable and universal resource for researchers conducting PFS. Researchers may use these considerations alongside the previously published literature to guide decisions about all aspects of PFS, with the hope of creating and disseminating interventions with broad public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Pfledderer
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health in Austin, Austin, TX, 78701, USA.
- Michael and Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health in Austin, Austin, TX, 78701, USA.
| | | | - Sarah Burkart
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29205, USA
| | | | - David R Lubans
- College of Human and Social Futures, The University of Newcastle Australia, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Russell Jago
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1QU, UK
| | - Anthony D Okely
- Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | | | - John P A Ioannidis
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Statistics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Meta-Research Innovation Center at Stanford (METRICS), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James F Thrasher
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29205, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29205, USA
| | - Michael W Beets
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29205, USA
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Bjelkarøy MT, Simonsen TB, Siddiqui TG, Halset S, Cheng S, Grambaite R, Benth JŠ, Gerwing J, Kristoffersen ES, Lundqvist C. Brief Intervention as a Method to Reduce Z-Hypnotic Use by Older Adults: Feasibility Case Series. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e51862. [PMID: 38329779 PMCID: PMC10884901 DOI: 10.2196/51862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Z-hypnotics or z-drugs are commonly prescribed for insomnia and sleep difficulties in older adults. These drugs are associated with adverse events and dependence and are not recommended for long-term use. Despite evidence of older adults being more sensitive to a wide array of adverse events and clinical guidelines advocating limiting use, inappropriate use in this population is still prevalent. Previous intervention studies have focused mainly on prescriber information. Simple, individually focused intervention designs are less studied. Brief intervention (BI) is a simple, easily transferable method mainly used to treat patients at risk of alcohol overuse. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to design and test the feasibility and acceptability of a BI intervention adapted to address individual, inappropriate use of z-hypnotics among older adults. This preparatory study aimed to optimize the intervention in advance of a quantitative randomized controlled trial investigating the treatment effect in a larger population. METHODS This feasibility case series was conducted at Akershus University Hospital, Norway, in autumn 2021. We included 5 adults aged ≥65 years with long-term (≥4 weeks) use of z-hypnotics and 2 intervening physicians. Additionally, 2 study investigators contributed with process evaluation notes. The BI consists of information on the risk of inappropriate use and individualized advice on how to reduce use. The focus of the intervention is behavioral and aims, in cooperation with the patient and based on shared decision-making, to change patient behavior regarding sleep medication rather than physician-based detoxification and termination of z-hypnotic prescriptions. Qualitative and descriptive quantitative data were collected from intervening physicians, study investigators, and participants at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and at the 6-week follow-up. RESULTS Data were obtained from 2 physicians, 2 study investigators, and 5 participants (4 women) with a median age of 84 years. The average time spent on the BI consultation was 15 minutes. All 5 participants completed the intervention without problems. The participants and 2 intervening physicians reported the intervention as acceptable and were satisfied with the delivery of the intervention. After the intervention, 2 participants stopped their use of z-hypnotics completely and participated in the follow-up interview. Study investigators identified logistical challenges regarding location and time requirements. Identified aspects that may improve the intervention and reduce dropouts included revising the intervention content, focusing on rebound insomnia, adding an information leaflet, and supporting the patient in the period between the intervention and follow-up. The notion that the intervention should best be located and conducted by the patient's own general practitioner was supported by the participants. CONCLUSIONS We identified important aspects to improve the designed intervention and found that the BI is feasible and acceptable for incorporation into a larger randomized trial investigating the treatment effect of BI for reducing z-hypnotic use by older adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03162081; http://tinyurl.com/rmzx6brn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Torheim Bjelkarøy
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Campus Ahus, Lørenskog, Norway
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Tone Breines Simonsen
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Tahreem Ghazal Siddiqui
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Campus Ahus, Lørenskog, Norway
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Sigrid Halset
- Department of Geriatrics, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Socheat Cheng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Campus Ahus, Lørenskog, Norway
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Ramune Grambaite
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jūratė Šaltytė Benth
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Campus Ahus, Lørenskog, Norway
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Jennifer Gerwing
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Espen Saxhaug Kristoffersen
- Department of Neurology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of General Practice, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christofer Lundqvist
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Campus Ahus, Lørenskog, Norway
- Health Services Research Unit Helsetjenesteforskning, Akershus University Hosptial, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of Neurology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
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12
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Kathard H, Mallick R, Cloete TL, Hansen A, Thabane L. Lessons learned about development and assessment of feasibility of tools for health and rehabilitation services. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:21. [PMID: 38308355 PMCID: PMC10835955 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01424-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the dire need for health and rehabilitation services internationally, exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a critical need to develop tools to support service delivery. This need is palpable in the Global South where tools developed in Eurocentric contexts are not always adaptable, applicable, or relevant. It is for this reason that the researchers present three case studies of tool development using pilot and feasibility studies in South Africa and share the lessons learned from these studies. OBJECTIVES To describe three case studies that developed new tools for health and rehabilitation services using pilot and feasibility studies. To synthesize lessons learned from these case studies on the development of tools. METHOD The researchers describe three case studies that were developed. The case studies are summarized as follows: aims and objectives, context, problem, study design, findings, and what happened after the study. Thereafter, a qualitative cross-case analysis was conducted by the researchers to generate themes. FINDINGS The case studies are described individually and followed by themes identified through cross-case analysis. DISCUSSION The lessons learned are discussed. It is essential to develop new tools and protocols, motivated by the need for equitable and contextually relevant practices. Partnerships and collaboration with end-users are critical for success. A critical, scientific process is essential in developing new tools. Pilot and feasibility studies are invaluable in developing tools and assessing the feasibility of tools and implementation. The goal is to develop practical, usable tools and protocols. CONCLUSION Through the lessons learned, the researchers are hopeful that the international health and rehabilitation professions will continue to strengthen the scientific development of contextually relevant tools and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsha Kathard
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, F45 Old Main Building, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, 7925, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Rizwana Mallick
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Children's Institute, University of Cape Town, 46 Sawkins Road, Rosebank, Cape Town, 7700, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Tracey-Lee Cloete
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, F45 Old Main Building, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anthea Hansen
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, 7602, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Faculty Health Sciences, Mc Master University, 175 Longwood Road South, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
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13
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Pfledderer CD, von Klinggraeff L, Burkart S, da Silva Bandeira A, Lubans DR, Jago R, Okely AD, van Sluijs EM, Ioannidis JP, Thrasher JF, Li X, Beets MW. Expert Perspectives on Pilot and Feasibility Studies: A Delphi Study and Consolidation of Considerations for Behavioral Interventions. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3370077. [PMID: 38168263 PMCID: PMC10760234 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3370077/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Background In the behavioral sciences, conducting pilot and/or feasibility studies (PFS) is a key step that provides essential information used to inform the design, conduct, and implementation of a larger-scale trial. There are more than 160 published guidelines, reporting checklists, frameworks, and recommendations related to PFS. All of these publications offer some form of guidance on PFS, but many focus on one or a few topics. This makes it difficult for researchers wanting to gain a broader understanding of all the relevant and important aspects of PFS and requires them to seek out multiple sources of information, which increases the risk of missing key considerations to incorporate into their PFS. The purpose of this study was to develop a consolidated set of considerations for the design, conduct, implementation, and reporting of PFS for interventions conducted in the behavioral sciences. Methods To develop this consolidation, we undertook a review of the published guidance on PFS in combination with expert consensus (via a Delphi study) from the authors who wrote such guidance to inform the identified considerations. A total of 161 PFS-related guidelines, checklists, frameworks, and recommendations were identified via a review of recently published behavioral intervention PFS and backward/forward citation tracking of well-know PFS literature (e.g., CONSORT Ext. for PFS). Authors of all 161 PFS publications were invited to complete a three-round Delphi survey, which was used to guide the creation of a consolidated list of considerations to guide the design, conduct, and reporting of PFS conducted by researchers in the behavioral sciences. Results A total of 496 authors were invited to take part in the Delphi survey, 50 (10.1%) of which completed all three rounds, representing 60 (37.3%) of the 161 identified PFS-related guidelines, checklists, frameworks, and recommendations. A set of twenty considerations, broadly categorized into six themes (Intervention Design, Study Design, Conduct of Trial, Implementation of Intervention, Statistical Analysis and Reporting) were generated from a review of the 161 PFS-related publications as well as a synthesis of feedback from the three-round Delphi process. These 20 considerations are presented alongside a supporting narrative for each consideration as well as a crosswalk of all 161 publications aligned with each consideration for further reading. Conclusion We leveraged expert opinion from researchers who have published PFS-related guidelines, checklists, frameworks, and recommendations on a wide range of topics and distilled this knowledge into a valuable and universal resource for researchers conducting PFS. Researchers may use these considerations alongside the previously published literature to guide decisions about all aspects of PFS, with the hope of creating and disseminating interventions with broad public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah Burkart
- University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health
| | | | | | - Russ Jago
- University of Bristol Population Health Sciences
| | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoming Li
- University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health
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14
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Becker JC, Ugurel S, Leiter U, Meier F, Gutzmer R, Haferkamp S, Zimmer L, Livingstone E, Eigentler TK, Hauschild A, Kiecker F, Hassel JC, Mohr P, Fluck M, Thomas I, Garzarolli M, Grimmelmann I, Drexler K, Spillner AN, Eckhardt S, Schadendorf D. Adjuvant immunotherapy with nivolumab versus observation in completely resected Merkel cell carcinoma (ADMEC-O): disease-free survival results from a randomised, open-label, phase 2 trial. Lancet 2023; 402:798-808. [PMID: 37451295 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)00769-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an immunogenic but aggressive skin cancer. Even after complete resection and radiation, relapse rates are high. PD-1 and PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors showed clinical benefit in advanced MCC. We aimed to assess efficacy and safety of adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibition in completely resected MCC (ie, a setting without an established systemic standard-of-care treatment). METHODS In this multicentre phase 2 trial, patients (any stage, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0-1) at 20 academic medical centres in Germany and the Netherlands with completely resected MCC lesions were randomly assigned 2:1 to receive nivolumab 480 mg every 4 weeks for 1 year, or observation, stratified by stage (American Joint Committee on Cancer stages 1-2 vs stages 3-4), age (<65 vs ≥65 years), and sex. Landmark disease-free survival (DFS) at 12 and 24 months was the primary endpoint, assessed in the intention-to-treat populations. Overall survival and safety were secondary endpoints. This planned interim analysis was triggered when the last-patient-in was followed up for more than 1 year. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02196961) and with the EU Clinical Trials Register (2013-000043-78). FINDINGS Between Oct 1, 2014, and Aug 31, 2020, 179 patients were enrolled (116 [65%] stage 3-4, 122 [68%] ≥65 years, 111 [62%] male). Stratification factors (stage, age, sex) were balanced across the nivolumab (n=118) and internal control group (observation, n=61); adjuvant radiotherapy was more common in the control group. At a median follow-up of 24·3 months (IQR 19·2-33·4), median DFS was not reached (between-groups hazard ratio 0·58, 95% CI 0·30-1·12); DFS rates in the nivolumab group were 85% at 12 months and 84% at 24 months, and in the observation group were 77% at 12 months and 73% at 24 months. Overall survival results were not yet mature. Grade 3-4 adverse events occurred in 48 [42%] of 115 patients who received at least one dose of nivolumab and seven [11%] of 61 patients in the observation group. No treatment-related deaths were reported. INTERPRETATION Adjuvant therapy with nivolumab resulted in an absolute risk reduction of 9% (1-year DFS) and 10% (2-year DFS). The present interim analysis of ADMEC-O might suggest clinical use of nivolumab in this area of unmet medical need. However, overall survival events rates, with ten events in the active treatment group and six events in the half-the-size observation group, are not mature enough to draw conclusions. The explorative data of our trial support the continuation of ongoing, randomised trials in this area. ADMEC-O suggests that adjuvant immunotherapy is clinically feasible in this area of unmet medical need. FUNDING Bristol Myers Squibb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen C Becker
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; Translational Skin Cancer Research, Department of Dermatology and West German Cancer Center, University of Medicine Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Selma Ugurel
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Leiter
- Centre for Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Friedegund Meier
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Dresden, Dresden, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ralf Gutzmer
- Skin Cancer Center Hannover, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Johannes Wesling Medical Center, Ruhr University Bochum, Minden, Germany
| | - Sebastian Haferkamp
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Zimmer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Livingstone
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas K Eigentler
- Centre for Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Axel Hauschild
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Felix Kiecker
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Vivantes Klinikum Berlin Neukölln, Berlin, Germany; Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jessica C Hassel
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Mohr
- Department of Dermatology, Elbe-Kliniken, Buxtehude, Germany
| | - Michael Fluck
- Department of Oncology Hornheide, Fachklinik Hornheide, Münster, Germany
| | - Ioannis Thomas
- Centre for Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlene Garzarolli
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Imke Grimmelmann
- Skin Cancer Center Hannover, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Konstantin Drexler
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Dirk Schadendorf
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Essen, Essen, Germany.
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Chiwanga FS, Woodford J, Masika GM, Richards DA, Savi V, von Essen L. An mHealth Intervention to Improve Guardians' Adherence to Children's Follow-Up Care for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Tanzania (GuardiansCan Project): Protocol for a Development and Feasibility Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e48799. [PMID: 37403706 PMCID: PMC10433028 DOI: 10.2196/48799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is a leading cause of death during childhood and in low- and middle-income countries survival rates can be as low as 20%. A leading reason for low childhood cancer survival rates in low- and middle-income countries such as Tanzania is treatment abandonment. Contributing factors include poor communication between health care providers and children's guardians, insufficient cancer knowledge, and psychological distress. OBJECTIVE Our aim is to respond to Tanzanian guardians' poor adherence to children's follow-up care after treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia with the help of mobile health (mHealth) technology. Our goal is to increase guardians' adherence to children's medications and follow-up visits and to decrease their psychological distress. METHODS Following the Medical Research Council framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions, we will undertake the GuardiansCan project in an iterative phased approach to develop an mHealth intervention for subsequent testing. Public contribution activities will be implemented throughout via the establishment of a Guardians Advisory Board consisting of guardians of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We will examine the acceptability, feasibility, and perceived impact of Guardians Advisory Board activities via an impact log and semistructured interviews (study I). In phase 1 (intervention development) we will explore guardians' needs and preferences for the provision of follow-up care reminders, information, and emotional support using focus group discussions and photovoice (study II). We will then co-design the mHealth intervention with guardians, health care professionals, and technology experts using participatory action research (study III). In phase 2 (feasibility), we will examine clinical, methodological, and procedural uncertainties associated with the intervention and study procedures to prepare for the design and conduct of a future definitive randomized controlled trial using a single-arm pre-post mixed methods feasibility study (study IV). RESULTS Data collection for the GuardiansCan project is anticipated to take 3 years. We plan to commence study I by recruiting Guardians Advisory Board members in the autumn of 2023. CONCLUSIONS By systematically following the intervention development and feasibility phases of the Medical Research Council Framework, and working alongside an advisory board of guardians, we intend to develop an acceptable, culturally appropriate, feasible, and relevant mHealth intervention with the potential to increase guardians' adherence to children's follow-up care after treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, leading to a positive impact on children's health and chances to survive, and reducing distress for guardians. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/48799.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraja S Chiwanga
- Department of Women's and Children's health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Directorate of Medical Services, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Joanne Woodford
- Department of Women's and Children's health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Golden M Masika
- Department of Women's and Children's health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Nursing, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - David A Richards
- Department of Women's and Children's health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
| | - Victor Savi
- Department of Women's and Children's health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Louise von Essen
- Department of Women's and Children's health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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McGlashan J, Aaen M, White A, Sadolin C. A mixed-method feasibility study of the use of the Complete Vocal Technique (CVT), a pedagogic method to improve the voice and vocal function in singers and actors, in the treatment of patients with muscle tension dysphonia: a study protocol. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:88. [PMID: 37226281 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01317-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) results from inefficient or ineffective voice production and is the cause of voice and throat complaints in up to 40% of patients presenting with hoarseness. Standard treatment is voice therapy (SLT-VT) delivered by specialist speech therapists in voice disorders (SLT-V). The Complete Vocal Technique (CVT) is a structured, pedagogic method which helps healthy singers and other performers optimise their vocal function enabling them to produce any sound required. The aim of this feasibility study is to investigate whether CVT administered by a trained, non-clinical CVT practitioner (CVT-P) can be applied to patients with MTD before progressing to a pilot randomised control study of CVT voice therapy (CVT-VT) versus SLT-VT. METHODS/DESIGN In this feasibility study, we use a mixed-method, single-arm, prospective cohort design. The primary aim is to demonstrate whether CVT-VT can improve the voice and vocal function in patients with MTD in a pilot study using multidimensional assessment methods. Secondary aims are to assess whether (1) a CVT-VT study is feasible to perform; (2) is acceptable to patients, the CVT-P and SLT-VTs; and (3) whether CVT-VT differs from existing SLT-VT techniques. A minimum of 10 consecutive patients with a clinical diagnosis of primary MTD (types I-III) will be recruited over a 6-month period. Up to 6 video sessions of CVT-VT will be delivered by a CVT-P using a video link. The primary outcome will be a change in pre-/post-therapy scores of a self-reported patient questionnaire (Voice Handicap Index (VHI)). Secondary outcomes include changes in throat symptoms (Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale), acoustic/electroglottographic and auditory-perceptual measures of voice. Acceptability of the CVT-VT will be assessed prospectively, concurrently and retrospectively both quantitatively and qualitatively. Differences from SLT-VT will be assessed by performing a deductive thematic analysis of CVT-P transcripts of therapy sessions. CONCLUSION This feasibility study will provide important data to support whether to proceed with a randomised controlled pilot study focusing on the effectiveness of the intervention compared to standard SLT-VT. Progression criteria will be based on demonstrating a positive outcome in treatment, successful delivery of the pilot study protocol, acceptability to all stakeholders and satisfactory recruitment rates. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov website ( NCT05365126 Unique Protocol ID: 19ET004). Registered on 06 May 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian McGlashan
- Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Mathias Aaen
- Complete Vocal Institute, Kompagnistraede 32A, 1208, Copenhagen K, Denmark
- Honorary Researcher, Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Anna White
- Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Cathrine Sadolin
- Complete Vocal Institute, Kompagnistraede 32A, 1208, Copenhagen K, Denmark
- Honorary Researcher, Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
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